Shanghai Private Night Tour with Dim Sum Dinner

Exploring Shanghai after sunset offers a whole new perspective on this sprawling metropolis. While we haven’t tested this tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded way to see the city’s illuminated skyline, historic sites, and indulge in tasty local cuisine—all with the comfort of a private guide.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized touch, the opportunity to enjoy authentic Shanghai dim sum, and the chance to see iconic landmarks like The Bund and Pudong’s skyscrapers in their nighttime glory. The flexible options to include a VIP river cruise or top-floor observation deck are especially appealing for those wanting a deeper view of the city’s modern marvels.

A potential drawback? The tour is limited to downtown hotels for pickup, so if you’re staying out in the outskirts, you’ll need to coordinate your own meet-up. However, with the private vehicle and well-planned itinerary, this setup still delivers great convenience.

This tour suits travelers who want a luxurious yet authentic night out—perfect for first-timers eager to see the main sights lit up, food lovers craving local flavors, and anyone who dreams of skyline views from above or the river.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle make for a tailored outing.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Yu Garden, The Bund, and optional tower or cruise.
• Authentic Cuisine: Delicious dim sum dinner featuring Shanghai specialties like soup dumplings.
• Flexible Add-Ons: Choose to include a VIP river cruise or top observation deck.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai.
• Weather-Ready: Operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting at Yu Garden Light Show

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your central Shanghai hotel—assuming you’re in the downtown area. From there, you’ll hop into a private, comfortable vehicle, which means no worries about navigating Shanghai’s bustling streets or figuring out public transport after a long day of sightseeing.

Your first stop is the Yu Garden Light Show in the Old Town area, a charming highlight that comes alive at night. The area is bathed in warm golden lights, and the buildings along the bazaar sparkle with illumination, creating a fairy-tale environment. The highlight here is crossing the Nine Zigzag Bridge, a traditional feature that’s both fun and culturally significant.

The guide shares insights into local customs, history, and culture, making the walk more than just sightseeing. The dinner at a well-selected local restaurant includes the famous Shanghai soup dumpling, along with other dishes tailored to your dietary preferences—vegetarian, meat, or otherwise. Based on the review, the food is genuinely authentic and delicious, with travelers appreciating the quality and variety.

Evening Views at The Bund

After dinner, your guide leads you along the waterfront to The Bund, the city’s iconic riverfront area lined with colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. This is where Shanghai’s skyline truly shines, especially at night when buildings like the Jinmao Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Shanghai Tower are lit up in their full glory.

If you opt for the “Tour with Dinner & VIP Cruise”, you’ll board a luxury cruise boat in a VIP section, giving you a relaxed way to soak in all the illuminated sights from the Huangpu River. The cruise offers a tranquil contrast to the bustling city streets, and the views—of both historic European-style buildings and futuristic skyscrapers—are nothing short of stunning.

The cruise lasts around 50 minutes, and you’ll have ample time for photos and just enjoying this unique perspective of Shanghai’s nightscape. Many reviews mention how impressive it is to see the lights reflecting off the river, creating a magical atmosphere.

Optional Top Tower Visit

For those looking for an even more breathtaking experience, the tour offers an option to visit one of Shanghai’s top observation decks—either the Shanghai Tower, Jinmao Tower, or Oriental Pearl Tower. This part of the tour provides panoramic views of the city from above, an experience that many say surpasses even the stunning river views.

The admission ticket to the tower is included if you choose this option, making it a good value considering the vantage point, the ticket, and the overall experience. Expect breathtaking vistas, especially at night, when the city lights stretch endlessly into the distance.

What Travelers Are Saying

The sole review available highlights the professionalism and knowledge of the guide, Chris, and mentions how dinner was both delicious and authentic. The reviewer from Tripadvisor appreciated that the tour moved efficiently, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each spot. They also appreciated the private driver arrangement when their hotel was outside the usual pickup zone, which underscores the flexibility and personal touch of this tour.

This emphasis on knowledgeable guides and tasty food suggests that the experience is thoughtfully curated. The reviewer also noted the timely manner of the tour, which is crucial for capturing the best views and avoiding long waits.

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai, simplifying logistics and allowing you to relax from the moment you step out of your accommodation. The private vehicle ensures comfortable transit between stops, saving you from the chaos of public transport or walking long distances at night.

The duration is approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable evening activity—yet enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it’s wise to dress according to the forecast, especially in cooler months or rainy evenings.

Pricing and Value

At around $142 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive night experience with options to include VIP river cruises or tower visits. When you factor in the private guide, transportation, dinner, and optional extras, it can be a good value for those seeking a curated, hassle-free evening. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview with cultural and scenic highlights, all tailored to your preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• First-time visitors wanting an overview of Shanghai’s night skyline and cultural sights.
• Food enthusiasts eager to taste authentic Shanghai cuisine in a relaxed setting.
• Photo lovers looking for iconic views of the illuminated cityscape and river.
• Luxury travelers seeking a private, personalized experience with optional VIP upgrades.
• Couples and small groups wanting to share a memorable, intimate night out.

The Sum Up

This private night tour offers a fantastic way to see Shanghai illuminated and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere without the hassle of self-guided planning. The combination of a delicious dim sum dinner, scenic walks, and optional VIP experiences makes it both convenient and luxurious—ideal for travelers who want a curated, memorable evening.

The knowledgeable guides and personalized service stand out, making every moment feel special. Whether you opt for just the highlights or add on the river cruise or tower visit, this tour encourages you to soak in the city’s energy and beauty in style.

If you’re after a relaxed yet immersive way to discover Shanghai at night, this experience delivers genuine value and authentic charm, especially for those who appreciate good food, stunning views, and a touch of luxury.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but only for hotels located in the downtown area. If your hotel is outside that zone, you’ll receive instructions on where to meet.

Can I visit the Shanghai Tower or other observation decks?
Yes, if you select the Tower & Dinner option, you’ll get a ticket to one of the top observation decks—either Shanghai Tower, Jinmao Tower, or Oriental Pearl Tower—offering spectacular nighttime city views.

What does the dinner include?
You’ll enjoy a local dim sum dinner, featuring Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings, along with other vegetable or meat dishes based on your dietary requests. The food is praised for its authenticity and quality.

What’s the best way to enjoy The Bund at night?
Booking the VIP cruise option provides a relaxed, scenic perspective of the skyline from the river, which many reviewers find more impressive than standing on the promenade alone.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. It’s ideal for families or small groups.

How long does the entire tour last?
Typically around 3 to 4 hours, giving you enough time to see key sights and enjoy dinner without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately for the weather—layers for cooler evenings or rain gear if necessary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This thoughtfully curated night tour in Shanghai combines cultural insights, scenic beauty, and authentic cuisine, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to really experience the city’s nighttime charm with ease and comfort.